Novy God, or "New Year" in Russian, is observed twice a year, with the first being the New New Year on January 1 and the second being the Orthodox New Year on January 14. The Russian New Year's celebrations have a long history, with the Orthodox Church still using the Julian calendar.
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Novy God 2024: Novy God, which is observed on January 14, is Russian for “New Year.” You might be shocked to hear that the Russian New Year is celebrated at this time of year because the date has fluctuated over the ages. This custom has a lengthy and intricate history, going back thousands of years. However, Russians now get to celebrate twice a year on this day! Not only that, but Russians also celebrate their New Year with customs reminiscent of Christmas.
Russia gets to celebrate New Year’s twice, in contrast to most other countries! The first is known as “New” New Year, and it is observed on January 1. The second is known as Old New Year, or Orthodox New Year, and it is observed on January 14.
The iconic Kremlin clock striking midnight immediately after the Russian president’s yearly New Year’s speech signals the start of the New Year, which begins for everyone just before midnight. When the Soviet leadership delivered a statement in 1941 about the nation’s activities during World War II, the custom of having the president deliver a speech was established. Presidents eventually veered away from politics and started talking about happier subjects like the spirit of the holidays and family values.
A New Year’s celebration is essential, regardless of when you celebrate. You may even rejoice twice! Play some music, grab some food and champagne, and spend the evening with your loved ones.
Russians take a lengthy bath, clean their home, and forgive those who have wronged them as a way to start the year fresh. Rather than setting a resolution, write your wish down on paper, burn it, and then pour the ashes into a champagne glass. Top to bottom! Remember to watch the president’s address as well.
A Russian New Year gathering with loved ones to watch the wildly successful Russian romantic comedy “The Irony of Fate” is not complete without it. Plan a movie night with your pals so you can all watch this inspirational comedy. While watching the film, pass around some delectable appetizers and don’t forget to serve Olivier salad, a traditional Russian New Year’s meal!
Calennig 2024: Date, history and 5 Facts About New Year’s Traditions
Russian New Year’s Eve seems to involve decorating a tree with candies and garlands and waiting for Ded Moroz, also known as Grandfather Frost, to deliver gifts to the kids. To get there, he climbs, skis, and takes a “troika,” a Russian horse-drawn carriage, as an alternative to flying with his reindeer. He pays a visit throughout the day and doesn’t mind baring his face.
Due to the calendar disparity and the proximity of the holidays, Russians celebrate with joy and gusto over those two weeks. On January 1st, extra food is usually prepared for the next celebration.
Both Christians and adherents of the Russian Orthodox Church can respect their respective cultures and religions because both of these dates are official holidays. Given that religious holiday festivities were prohibited in the Soviet Union, this is particularly significant.
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2024 | January 14 | Sunday |
2025 | January 14 | Tuesday |
2026 | January 14 | Wednesday |
2027 | January 14 | Thursday |
2028 | January 14 | Friday |
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